Why in the News?

The Government of India’s Department of Science and Technology has initiated the National Quantum Mission, with plans to launch a quantum satellite within the next 2-3 years to facilitate quantum communications.

What is the National Quantum Mission?

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India, specifically under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), aimed at fostering research and development in quantum technologies.
• Approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023, the mission has a budget of approximately ₹6,000 crore (about $730 million) and is set to be implemented from 2023 to 2031.

The primary objectives of NQM include:

• Development of Quantum Technologies: The mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits within eight years, enhancing India’s capabilities in quantum computing.
• Quantum Communication: Establishing a secure quantum communication network that spans 2,000 kilometers, facilitating both domestic and international secure communications.
• Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Advancing technologies for high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks, which are critical for precision timing and navigation.
• Quantum Materials: Focusing on the design and synthesis of quantum materials necessary for the fabrication of advanced quantum devices.

What is a quantum satellite?

• A quantum satellite refers to a communications satellite that employs quantum mechanics principles to secure its signals.
• This technology is pivotal for enhancing cybersecurity in communications, particularly as traditional encryption methods face vulnerabilities from advances in quantum computing.

Key features of quantum satellites include:

• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This technique allows two parties to securely share encryption keys using quantum properties. If an eavesdropper attempts to intercept the key, any measurement made will alter the state of the photons carrying the information, alerting the communicating parties to the breach.
• Distance Capability: Unlike optical fibers, which have distance limitations (typically 100-250 km), quantum satellites can facilitate secure communications over much greater distances, making them suitable for national and international networks.

What are the significance and drawbacks of QKD?

• Unconditional Security: QKD provides a level of security that is theoretically unbreakable due to the laws of quantum physics. It ensures that any attempt at eavesdropping will be detectable.
• Resistance to Quantum Threats: As quantum computers evolve, they pose a threat to current encryption methods. QKD offers a new layer of security that is resilient against these emerging threats.

Drawbacks of QKD: 

• Authentication Issues: QKD does not inherently authenticate the source of transmissions, which can be problematic.
• Cost and Infrastructure: Implementing QKD networks can be expensive and complex due to hardware dependencies.
• Limited Practical Security: The actual security provided by QKD systems may not always match theoretical expectations due to practical engineering challenges.
• Denial-of-Service Vulnerabilities: Eavesdroppers can disrupt transmissions, potentially denying service to legitimate users.

Way forward: 

• Integrate Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): Complement QKD with PQC to address authentication and denial-of-service vulnerabilities, leveraging advanced classical encryption alongside quantum security.
• Invest in Scalable Infrastructure: Develop cost-effective, upgradeable quantum hardware and standardized protocols to ensure widespread and sustainable adoption of QKD systems.

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